"No SIM Card Detected" Solutions for Android

Hansel Arief

If you're not sure whether this is the right fix or you're seeing a different SIM error, start with the complete SIM error guide.

"No SIM Card Detected" Causes

Getting a “No SIM Card Detected” or “No SIM Card Inserted” on your Android? That usually means your phone can’t detect the SIM, even if it’s sitting in the tray. This is usually a physical detection issue, not a software bug.

Here's how to troubleshoot it.

Step 1: Power Down and Check the SIM

• Turn off your Android device.
• Gently remove the SIM tray using a SIM ejector tool or alcohol swabs.
• Clean the SIM and tray with a dry, lint-free cloth.
• Reseat the SIM carefully and make sure it sits flush.

Need help with SIM ejector alternatives? Here’s a list of safe tools you can use.

Step 2: Restart in Normal Mode

• Power the phone back on normally.
• Give it a few seconds to search for the SIM.
• If the error disappears, you’re good.

Still seeing the error? Keep going.

Step 3: Boot into Safe Mode

Sometimes third-party apps can interfere with SIM detection.

• Press and hold the power button.
• Tap and hold "Power off" until the Safe Mode option appears.
• Tap "OK" to reboot in Safe Mode.

If the SIM works in Safe Mode, an app is likely the problem. Uninstall recently added apps that could be causing interference.

Step 4: Check SIM Status in Settings

• Go to Settings > About Phone > SIM Status.
• Look for signal strength and network info.
• If it says "No SIM," the device still isn’t reading the card.

Step 5: Reset Network Settings

This clears all saved Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and carrier settings.

• Go to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth

Step 6: Try Another SIM or Device

• Insert a known working SIM card.
• Or test your SIM in a different phone.
• This will help isolate whether the issue is with the SIM or your device.

If nothing has worked so far, it could be a hardware issue. This is where a digital eSIM might save you the trip to a repair shop.

Still Having Trouble? Consider eSIM

If your SIM tray is damaged or unreliable, switching to eSIM might be the fix.

• No physical card needed
• Activate directly from your device
• Try Eskimo Global eSIM for free—it works in 80+ countries and installs instantly on compatible devices.

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Written by a real person 💙

Hansel Arief

I've been the Digital Lead for Eskimo eSIM since 2021. My favorite thing to do while travelling is to find lessser-known hidden gems and try authentic, local cuisines.